“Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life” (Psalm 23:6)
In Hannah Hurnard’s allegory Hinds’ Feet on High Places, her character Much Afraid takes a spiritual journey very similar to the path we follow. Sometimes, her Shepherd is very close-by and at other times He seems no-where to be found.
One constant in little Much Afraid’s life are her companions aptly named Sorrow and Suffering.
Only after much difficulties and hardships does Much Afraid arrive on the High Places. Once there, she is amazed to find that her much despised companions were actually Grace and Glory after all.
Goodness and lovingkindness (Psalm 23:6) are often disguised in much the same way.
While our eyes behold our present situation, we often feel overwhelmed, discouraged and even hopeless.
We feel certain that Goodness and Lovingkindness couldn’t possibly be near.
Yet, it is in the moments of reflection that we truly recognize our companions. They are often not in front of us, but behind us – following just as the Psalmist testifies.
In order to fully appreicate the goodness and kindness that the Father stations to hem us in from the rear, we must take time to reflect on the paths through which He has led.
It is only by looking at the past that we will be able to glory in His faithfulness and actually trace His hand.
Take time this weekend to make a list of the goodness’ and lovingkindness’ that has followed you.
Remember not only the paths of righteousness, but also the valleys of shadows, as you find areas in which you can give thanks.
Then share them with someone else – (I’d love it to be me) – as it’s Biblical to rejoice with those that rejoice.